The state now requires municipalities to present to the public Resolutions of Consideration, mapping areas they might consider annexing in the near future. According to the staff report written for the presentation of the matter to Asheville City Council next week:

Since the time of adoption of the last resolution/map in 2010, North Carolina law has changed significantly regarding city-initiated annexations, adding a petition requirement before such annexations can take effect. As a result, the map staff has prepared to accompany this resolution has changed significantly compared to previous versions. The accompanying map drastically reduces the area compared to what was previously included.

[drum roll, please . . .]

The total area of consideration has been reduced from 33.1 square miles to less than one square mile.